There are two routes for getting advocacy support for Carers.

Route one – general advocacy

The Carers UK Looking after someone guide is for anyone who cares for family or friends. The guide outlines your rights as a carer and gives an overview of the practical and financial support available.

We encourage all carers to read Being Heard – a guide to self-advocacy for carers. The guide has been produced by Carers UK to help carers speak up for themselves and the person they care for.

Devon Citizens Advice offer advice and information to carers on a range of topics.

You can call the Devon-wide Citizens Adviceline on 0344 411 1444 or drop into your local advice centre:

• Exeter
• Plymouth
• South Hams
• Teignbridge
• Torbay
• Torridge, North, Mid and West Devon

Route two – Independent Advocacy (aged 16+)

If you have substantial difficulty in being involved in and have no appropriate individual to support you with:

1. Carers Assessment (also known as a Carer Health and Wellbeing Check)
2. Support Planning
3. Review
4. Safeguarding Processes

Then a Social Care professional, including Devon Carers, can make a referral to the Independent Advocacy Service.